High-speed rail answer by summer

The province will decide by this summer whether it wants to proceed with a high-speed rail link between its two largest cities.

Economic Development Minister Mark Norris says the proposal looks at using Bombardier's "jet train" between Calgary and Edmonton, which could travel the distance in half the time it takes to drive. Norris said the track could also be extended to Fort McMurray.

Highway 2 between the cities is becoming more and more congested with traffic.

The train uses a jet engine in a locomotive, allowing it to reach speeds which were before only possible with electrification, and it can run on existing rail lines.

"We have jointly done a study with the Van Horne Institute in Calgary to look at the reality of putting a high-speed link either on existing tracks or maybe setting up a new system," Norris said. "The price tags range from $800 million to $4 billion, so there is a reality of economics that's going to have to drive this."

Norris said the results of the feasibility study, which the government has invested $50,000 in, will be made public this summer.

From April 8, 2003: Alberta studies high-speed train between cities

From March 6, 2003: Bombardier touts high speed rail